Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Routine vaccinations are usually sufficient for travel to Cyprus. Ensure you’re up-to-date on the following:
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTP)
Varicella (chickenpox)
Polio
Yearly flu shot
Consider Hepatitis A, especially if planning to eat street food or local specialties. If you’re staying longer or visiting rural areas, Hepatitis B might be a good idea. Always check with your healthcare provider for the latest recommendations.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Cyprus, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for CyprusCulture & Customs
Do shake hands firmly when greeting, and maintain eye contact. Offer your right cheek when greeting people as a sign of respect. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Public displays of affection are generally fine, but same-sex couples should be discreet in rural areas. Women traveling alone should stay aware of their surroundings but will generally find Cyprus safe. Avoid discussing political issues, especially about the division between the north and south.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Cyprus.
- Halloumi: This semi-hard, unripened cheese is usually grilled or fried. It’s a big deal in Cyprus because of its unique squeaky texture and versatility. You’ll find it in salads, sandwiches, or just on its own with a splash of lemon.
- Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb that’s marinated with lemon juice, herbs, and spices. The dish dates back to the time of Greek bandits (the ”klephts”), who supposedly cooked stolen lamb in sealed pits to avoid detection. It’s tender and bursting with flavor.
- Souvla: Think of it as the Cypriot cousin of Greek souvlaki but larger chunks of meat. Traditionally cooked on a long skewer over a charcoal barbecue, it’s a staple at any Cypriot gathering.
- Sheftalia: These are Cypriot sausages made from minced pork or lamb, mixed with onions and parsley, and wrapped in caul fat. Grilled over charcoal, they’re a must-try for their juicy and smoky flavor.
- Tava: This hearty stew consists of lamb, onions, and potatoes, slowly cooked with cumin and other spices. It’s a comfort food that showcases the island’s love for simple, slow-cooked dishes.
Tap water in Cyprus is generally safe to drink, and locals do use it for cooking and drinking. However, tourists often prefer bottled or filtered water to avoid any minor stomach issues, especially if they have sensitive digestion. It’s cheap and widely available, so it’s a convenient option.
The main language in Cyprus is
Greek. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Greek skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Cyprus includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
Get your local basic phrases 👉
Get the Travel Guide - is widely spoken in Cyprus, making it a convenient destination for English-speaking travelers. Due to the island’s historical ties with the British, particularly during the colonial period, many Cypriots are fluent in English. In urban areas, tourist spots, and among younger generations, you’ll find a high level of proficiency. Most signs, menus, and information are available in English, facilitating easy navigation.
In rural areas, while English may not be as commonly spoken, many locals in the hospitality and tourism sectors can communicate effectively in English. Additionally, older generations may have varying levels of proficiency, but basic communication is usually possible.
Overall, travelers can expect minimal language barriers, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable experience while exploring the rich culture and history of Cyprus.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Cyprus is EUR (€).
When backpacking in Cyprus, you’ll find ATMs pretty accessible in urban areas; just don’t count on them in the middle of nowhere. It’s best to carry some cash, especially for smaller towns and rural areas where card acceptance might be spotty.
Stick with euros since it’s the official currency. US dollars aren’t useful here, so don’t bother bringing them. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist spots, but always have some euros handy for small vendors or public transport.
If you need to exchange currency, banks and official exchange offices are your best bet. Avoid airport exchange counters as they often have poor rates. Keep an eye on the exchange rate—some places can be sneaky with hidden fees.
Tipping in Cyprus isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. In restaurants, leaving around 10% for good service is common. Taxi drivers and hotel staff typically appreciate loose change or rounding up the fare.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.